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Scratch on the stem
NB: Originally posted elsewhere on the Global Riders Network and appears via syndication.
Hi,
I have noticed a scratch on my bike's stem and I wonder whether I should worry about this and replace the stem, or it is still fine - please see picture attached. It is not too deep, but there is certainly a cut out and it is not just the paint. I am not sure how it has happened, maybe another bike scratched it while on the car bike rack...
Zoltan
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That's fine.
Carbon scratches are an issue as the strength is in the surface.
Metals share the strength throughout it's thickness, so long as it's not at a stress concentration point.
Zoltan
There is no doubt this is an issue that must be addressed prior to next ride. This scratch is due to undue force and exertion getting bike onto and off bike rack or simple hard work. Also if look back along stem there is what appears to be roughing of the paint and finish near the allen keys mounts.
I would recommend immediate (read do not ride until replaced) purchase of another item, perhaps not with such long reach and 10% max rise. It is unlikely your vehicle would see out another 5 or say 10 kays max with this damage, and it is extremely unsightly.
The excessive blue in the bars, mount and headframe are causing the image to be a bit unclear, however I would recomend sale of entire unit to a unaware second party and purchase of a 24 inch mini dh/freeride rig more accoustomed to your riding style.
Its a scratch for cripes sake, and having taken off the manufacturers (or sub manufacturers brand) has added hundreds to the purchase price.
GR
i ride giant bikes too,i had a giant stem on my alias and it cracked too.the crack went thru the frame and continued up the seat post,eventually ending at the back of my pants.i have since thrown the bike away but the crack at the back of my pants is still there,i think i need help,sometimes it makes loud burping sounds too
I know when I first started using this site I asked some very basic questions, but everyone was very helpful. I wonder how Zoltan feels right now, having asked a genuine question and being faced with a response that was full of sarcasm, designed to make him look stupid, and even took the opportunity to slam his chosen bike brand? We have enough opposition to our sport from other groups - the least we can do is be helpful and friendly to each other.
Poor form. It was a genuine question and warranted a genuine answer.
To answer the question, I think you'll be fine... although it pays to keep an eye on any issues like this.
probably on the bike rack as you say. Not clear from the picture how deep it is, but if it's just surface wear, then it shouldn't be a problem with an alloy stem. Try to load the bikes differently so that it doesn't wear further in the same spot.
Well said JP. While i'm not 100% sure the OP wasn't a troll Once upon a time the MTB community were a friendly helpful bunch but the amount of smart arse elitism and e-heroritry(TM) that has crept into our sport in the last coupe of years astounds me.
Everyone thinks they are a comedian but it doesn't often come off over this medium. and once 1 joker starts all the other clowns feel the need to join in.
Must have something to do with all these roadies on their flat bar cyclocross bikes... I mean 29ers....
Zoltan. I doubt the scratch is an issue and I wouldn't worry too much beyond keeping an eye on it and being a little more careful about loading the bike on the rack but it's not something you can really diagnose 100% from a photo on the interknot and really, mountain bikes are suppose to have scratches on them.
the stem looks ok to me, the question I have though is the bar a Carbon one if so i would be replacing it ASAP.
IF you have a close look at it there is a score mark where the paint has been removed right by where the stem clamps onto the bars. i have seen a couple of carbon bars break right there (and one alloy bar too). Get your LBS to look over it if in doubt.
The Giant Connect stems on the Anthems are alloy. Looks like just a surface rub to me - nothing structural, but if you don't like the look of it go to your local toy/hobby shop and buy a small pot of humbrol satin black paint (yep, the stuff your Dad used to paint his Airfix kits with!) and a '00' brush and touch it up. Works well on wheel rims, cranks etc. too. Might want to paint over some of that blue while you're about it - I love Ginat bikes, but they do get a bit carried away with their funky colour matching sometimes
Thanks guys for the response - it was a genuine question even if it looks stupid, although I don't think I would classify a question stupid when it comes to safety.
The comment on the Giant brand is plain rude - I'd like to think the poster just had a bad day.
Zoltan
No Zoltan, as identified just a prick. Have fun. If your doing it well its going to get scary and its going to get scratched.
Otherwise its road riding.
The comment on giant is pure elitism.
Rob
jesus christ grab a kleenex quick and some band aids
I hate bike rub on bike racks. My friend and I would tie old socks anywhere the bikes were close to rubbing.
Looks fine for now, would suggest a bit of touch up paint to protect the stem from rust. If rusting was to occur then I would be looking at replacing the stem.
If your worried I have the same stem off that bike sitting here doing nothing (minus the titanium screws) you are welcome to have it. I think mine is a 110mm off an XL I think the smaller frames may have been a 100mm stem
Awhile back I bought some Frameskins to protect my bike, and there are some leftover "extra" pieces that come with the pre-cut pieces. I used a few of these in strategic places to protect my frame from bike rack rub.
So far it's worked out beautifully, and I'd highly recommend it.